Tavern On The Green Goes Out With A Bang

Tavern on the Green plans to say goodbye to 2009 with a big New Year’s Eve bash, despite the fact that this year is one that the restaurant’s operators are probably eager to leave behind.

This year saw Chief Executive Jennifer LeRoy, whose father opened the restaurant in 1976, lose her bid to continue operating the Central Park attraction. Instead, New York City – which owns the restaurant – issued a new 20-year license to restaurateur Dean Poll that’s slated to take effect in 2010. The decision, as well as the economic downturn, spurred Tavern on the Green to seek Chapter 11 protection in September.

Now, Tavern’s current operators are locked in a legal battle with New York City over who is the rightful owner of the “Tavern on the Green” name, a valuable asset the operators peg at $19 million.

Even so, LeRoy is teaming up with party promoters to close the doors in style. The restaurant on Tuesday announced its plans to “fulfill any New Year’s fantasy” with a bash that includes an open bar from 10 p.m. until 4 a.m.; a dinner buffet where guests can nosh on everything from Italian charcuterie, veal and mini burgers to various pastas and desserts; and two surprise DJs spinning house, hip-hop and rock music. Party planners also promise a view of the fireworks in Central Park.

Basic admission goes for $125, while revelers willing to shell out $250 can get seated VIP tables with bottle service.

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